Who REALLY pays for political protests? Are grassroots movements always organic, or is there an entire business behind political outrage?

In Episode 16 of Systems & Power, host Moses Parente sits down with Adam Swart, Founder and CEO of Crowds on Demand, a company specializing in public advocacy, grassroots organizing, and mobilizing support for political and corporate campaigns.

Adam offers an inside perspective on the business of political advocacy, the role of wealthy donors in shaping public opinion, and how money and messaging influence American politics.

With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, we also explore the growing divisions within the Republican and Democratic parties, the influence of younger voters, and what these political shifts could mean for 2028.

In this episode, we discuss:

• 💰 Who funds political protests and advocacy campaigns?
• 📢 The business behind organized political movements
• 🇺🇸 The 2026 midterm elections and the future of both parties
• 📊 Prediction markets vs. traditional political polling
• 🗳️ Donald Trump's influence over the Republican Party
• 🔥 The rise of democratic socialism and changing political attitudes among Gen Z
• 🌎 Israel, Palestine, and the changing landscape of American foreign policy
• 🏛️ Potential congressional investigations, impeachment, and the balance of power in Washington
• 🎯 Adam's advice on effective advocacy and influencing decision-makers

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Adam Swart
00:26 – Predicting the 2026 Midterm Elections
03:41 – Are Polls and Prediction Markets Reliable?
05:22 – The Business Behind Political Protests
07:18 – Billionaires and Political Influence
08:11 – Crowds on Demand and Its Campaigns
09:42 – Are Democrats Heading Into 2028 Without a Leader?
12:01 – Could Donald Trump Jr. Run for President?
13:28 – The Future of MAGA and the Republican Party
16:39 – Ken Paxton, Trump, and Political Loyalty
19:48 – Are Political Parties Delivering for Their Voters?
21:44 – The Rise of Democratic Socialists
23:28 – Gen Z, Israel, and Changing Political Attitudes
25:49 – TikTok Politics and Political Messaging
27:18 – What Happens if Democrats Take the House?
29:15 – Could Trump Face Another Impeachment?
30:01 – Hakeem Jeffries vs. Nancy Pelosi
32:03 – How to Advocate Effectively
33:52 – Closing Remarks

About Systems & Power

Systems & Power explores the intersection of technology, business, politics, and the people shaping our world. Through conversations with entrepreneurs, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders, we examine the ideas, institutions, and systems influencing our future.

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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily represent those of their employers, affiliated organizations, or institutions. This conversation is presented for informational and public-interest discussion purposes.